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The Mass Media

The Mass Media

The Mass Media

Shows to watch as classes start

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Olivia Reid
A student catches up on the newest season of “Stranger Things” in her friend’s car after a stressful day. Photo by Olivia Reid / Mass Media Staff

The average college student is expected to do many things: studying, working hard, paying tuition and more. At times, it can feel like a juggling act. However, it shouldn’t just be hard times and financial woes being managed in that act. It is important for college students to decompress and relax. One time-tested way of doing so is watching TV. So, without further ado, here are some shows that  interested students could potentially lose themselves in—while still doing all of their work, of course.
If one is not in the mood for shutting their brain off completely and wants to watch something that can make them think and laugh simultaneously, “The Good Place” would be the perfect show to watch. The story centers around four people who have recently…well, died. That may not be the most upbeat opening sentence but it’s what comes next that brings the laughs. 
‘Living’ in an ideal afterlife, Eleanor Shellstrop realizes that she was only put in the Good Place by accident. From there comes a great many twists and turns that revolve around moral philosophy and sitcom hijinks. It’s a show that perfectly balances comfort and thoughtfulness. All four seasons of “The Good Place” are currently streaming on Netflix.
For those who would rather be scared and watch something to go with the upcoming fall season, look no further than the Netflix originals: “The Haunting of Hill House” and “The Haunting of Bly Manor.” “The Haunting of Hill House” was the first installment in the series about the terrifying events that took place in the titular house. Alternating between the past—when the traumatic incident took place—and the present, the show builds up to a truly satisfying ending. 
“The Haunting of Bly Manor” takes place in a manor located in the United Kingdom. One woman is hired to watch over two children living in the manor and, as the haunting part of the title may have given away, some scary events take place. With Halloween just around the corner, these may be one of the perfect shows to get someone in the mood for it.
And what about those who are a bit nerdier? It seems that Disney owns everything nowadays so naturally, Disney+ is the streaming service to go to when it comes to beloved franchises. For example, Star Wars has released many shows on the service. “Obi-Wan Kenobi,” which was recently released, is the newest show the property has to offer. 
The series follows Kenobi, the famous Jedi, as he reflects on his failures in the movies and awaits a new hope to make up for them. For those who grew up on the prequels and love Ewan McGregor’s portrayal of the character, “Obi-Wan Kenobi” is definitely worth giving a shot. 
Finally, those who are in the mood for a good murder mystery should check out the Hulu series “Only Murders in the Building.” The series follows three residents, played by Steve Martin, Martin Short and Selena Gomez, of an expensive, high-class apartment building as they investigate a death that took place in the very residence. 
Equal parts funny and mysterious, it is a fun time for those who are into films like “Clue” or “Death on the Orient Express”. The show currently has two seasons. These should be enough to last the semester. To everyone starting this fall semester, good luck!

About the Contributors
Kyle Makkas, Humor Writer
Olivia Reid, Photo Editor